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	Extradition for Rabbi on Abuse Charges By Marco Sibaja ninemsm May 23, 2009 http://news.ninemsn.com.au/world/817120/extradition-for-rabbi-on-abuse-charges The Brazilian government can extradite a fugitive rabbi to Israel, where he is accused of burning and cutting toddlers as part of a purification ritual, the Supreme Court says. Elior Noam Hen and several followers allegedly used knives, hammers and other instruments to abuse three- and four-year-old children. He faces charges of child abuse, violence against minors and conspiracy. The court has found there is cause for Hen to stand trial for allegedly subjecting eight children to "intense physical and mental suffering because they were supposedly possessed by the devil". It voted unanimously late on Thursday to grant the Brazilian government's request for his extradition, which is expected to be approved by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Lawyers for Hen could not immediately be reached. But the court rejected defence arguments that Israeli courts do not have jurisdiction since the alleged crimes took place in the West Bank settlement of Beitar Illit in February and March 2008. Judge Carlos Ayres Britto said Israel has jurisdiction under current treaties between Israel and the Palestine Authority. Hen's lawyers argued the treaties have expired and their client should not be handed to Israeli authorities. Hen, who allegedly acted with four other people, was arrested in Brazil in June 2008 after a 45-day manhunt. Police did not say how or when he and his family arrived in the country. The rabbi allegedly hit the children in the head and face and burned their hands, the court said. One child sustained permanent brain damage and is in a vegetative state.
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